Alberta is making a series of regulatory changes to its alcohol and cannabis laws, with a focus on expanding options for consumers and cutting red tape for small businesses.
Under the changes, small liquor manufacturers will be allowed to sell their own beverages directly to customers on large-format bikes, commonly known as “party bikes.” Previously, they were prohibited from advertising or serving their own products on these mobile platforms.
“We are proud that these amendments not only cut red tape in the retail segment of the liquor marketplace, but also directly open more opportunities for small manufacturers to grow their businesses,” said Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction.
The province is also changing rules around liquor retail space. Businesses that own or lease large commercial buildings will now be allowed to operate a liquor store within the same location—provided the store has a separate entrance and full floor-to-ceiling walls to distinguish it from other retail areas.
In a move to support the cannabis industry, Alberta will now allow federally licensed cannabis producers to apply for retail licenses to sell marijuana directly from the same property where it’s grown. Officials say the change brings Alberta in line with other provinces and helps increase access to locally produced cannabis.
According to the Alberta government, there are currently over 1,600 liquor retailers in the province offering more than 35,000 products. Alberta is also home to 752 licensed cannabis stores and 2,356 approved marijuana products. Cannabis producers are overseen by Health Canada, while retail stores must be licensed by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC).
